Tierenteyn-Verlent has been the must(ard)-see spot in Ghent since 1840! Crowds rush over to Groentenmarkt, because this place knows a thing or two about canning in style. The old-fashioned apothecary-inspired shelves are filled with history and elegant jars, made in house or by local artisans. The famous mustard (fine or wholegrain) draws in regulars who bring their own Tupperwares, because they also serve it directly by the ladleful, straight from the barrels. We brought home pickles, bitter onions, tomato chutney and curried mayonnaise, and felt tempted by the cornichons, capers and even the apple cider vinegar, all labeled Demi-Lune, the boutique’s other name and a reference to the family’s old vinegar brewery. // Sam Oups

The hidden gem: The thinned-out mustard that’s spicy and sweet at the same time (€3.55 for a 200-ml jar).